Texas awards $2.4M grant to Dongjin Semichem for Killeen facility expansion

Governor Greg Abbott has announced that Dongjin Semichem Texas, Inc. (DST) will receive a $2.4 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF). This grant is aimed at supporting DST's specialty chemicals and materials facility in Killeen, which promises to create 24 new jobs and attract over $110 million in capital investment.

Governor Abbott highlighted the significance of this development, stating, "Texas is where the chip was born and where the future of the semiconductor industry is building." He emphasized that DST's investment would strengthen the U.S. semiconductor supply chain by producing ultra-high-purity photoresist thinners in Texas for the first time.

Dr. David Daniel, Chair of the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium (TSIC), expressed pride in awarding this grant to DST, noting its role in advancing Texas as a leader in the semiconductor industry. "DST’s growing presence in Killeen is furthering Texas’ leadership and creating good-paying jobs while securing a critical domestic supply chain," he said.

DST specializes in manufacturing photoresist thinner formulas essential for semiconductor chip fabrication processes like photolithography. The expansion aims to replace foreign sources with domestically produced thinners, reinforcing the U.S. supply of these critical materials for advanced semiconductors.

Dr. Chun Hyuk Lee, Vice-Chairman and CEO of Dongjin Semichem Co., Ltd., thanked Governor Abbott and others involved for supporting DST's expansion plans through this funding. He remarked on Dongjin's commitment to bolstering semiconductor innovation in Central Texas.

Senator Pete Flores commended this initiative as crucial for maintaining Texas as a prime location for technology investments, emphasizing its impact on job creation and quality of life improvements.

Representative Brad Buckley praised DST as an esteemed member of the Killeen community and expressed gratitude for this economic boost to West Bell County.

The TSIF program was established under the Texas CHIPS Act signed into law by Governor Abbott in June 2023. It seeks to enhance Texas' position as a leader in semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing through strategic investments.